Structural diversity and phylogenetic distribution of valyl tRNA-like structures in viruses.

ABSTRACT: Viruses commonly use specifically folded RNA elements that interact with both host and viral proteins to perform functions important for diverse viral processes. Examples are found at the 3' termini of certain positive-sense ssRNA virus genomes where they partially mimic tRNAs, including being aminoacylated by host cell enzymes. Valine-accepting tRNA-like structures (TLS^Val) are an example that share some clear homology with canonical tRNAs but have several important structural differences. Although many examples of TLS^Val have been identified, we lacked a full understanding of their structural diversity and phylogenetic distribution. To address this, we undertook an in-depth bioinformatic and biochemical investigation of these RNAs, guided by recent high-resolution s

SUBMITTER: Sherlock ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7749636 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature